End of watch: Celebration of Life announced for fallen Cameron County constable

Cameron County Precinct 1 Deputy Constable Ruben Garcia's body is transported from Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen to Garza Memorial Funeral Home in Brownsville on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. (Courtesy: Cameron County Precinct Five Constable's office)
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Police officers escort the hearse carrying Cameron County Precinct 1 Deputy Constable Ruben Garcia’s body on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. (Courtesy: Cameron County Precinct Five Constable’s office)

A Celebration of Life will be held for Cameron County Precinct 1 Deputy Constable Ruben Garcia, who was hit and killed by an alleged intoxicated driver on Monday.

Cameron County Precinct 1 Constable Norman Esquivel Jr. invited the public to honor Garcia’s life and service to the community from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. next Monday at the Brownsville Event Center located at 1 Event Center Paredes Line Rd.

“Let us come together to remember and celebrate the life of Deputy Ruben Garcia,” the Precinct 1 Constable’s office said in a Facebook post. “Your thoughts, prayers, and support are greatly appreciated during this difficult time.”

Services have been entrusted to Garza Memorial Funeral Home, located at 1025 E. Jackson. The Cameron County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office says anyone with questions about Garcia’s funeral arrangements should call the Garza Memorial Funeral Home at (956) 542-5511.

Police officers escort the hearse carrying Cameron County Precinct 1 Deputy Constable Ruben Garcia’s body on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. (Courtesy: Cameron County Precinct Five Constable’s office)

In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Esquivel described Garcia as a dedicated and courageous officer who took pride in serving and protecting the community he loved.

“He was a selfless public servant who consistently placed the safety and well-being of others above his own, embodying the very best qualities of law enforcement,” Esquivel wrote. “Deputy Garcia’s commitment to serving our community will never be forgotten. He made the ultimate sacrifice, and we will forever be grateful for his dedication, bravery, and service.”

Esquivel further said that Garcia was a true hero and that as the community mourns his loss that it take a moment to remember the spirit of resilience, courage, and selflessness displayed by all those in law enforcement.

Border Patrol agents stand watch as police escort the hearse carrying Cameron County Precinct 1 Deputy Constable Ruben Garcia’s body on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. (Courtesy: Cameron County Precinct Five Constable’s office)

“Though Deputy Garcia’s watch has ended, his legacy of service, compassion, and dedication will continue to inspire and guide those who follow in his footsteps,” Esquivel wrote. “In the line of duty deaths, while tragic, remind us of the unwavering commitment and bravery shown by those who serve.

“It serves as a testament to the strength of our law enforcement community, uniting us in the face of adversity and encouraging us to carry on their work with honor.”

Esquivel also asked that the public respect the family’s privacy as they grieve.